Who We Are
We envision a Canadian culture which embraces and values the artistic, economic, contemporary, historical and social significance of craft.
Mission Statement
Create connections and champion craft
Mandate
As a Federation of organizations, the CCF/FCMA works with the Provincial and Territorial Craft Councils and affiliate organizations to unite, enrich, empower and celebrate the professional contemporary craft sector through collaborative action, networking, and community development.
Approach
- We unite Canadian professional craft organizations in order to learn, share, collaborate, and strengthen the sector.
- We create and deliver programming and research that informs, engages, empowers, and celebrates the professional craft sector.
- We identify and act on craft-based projects and collaborations that have regional, national, and international impact.
- We actively pursue and develop meaningful relationships with organizations, institutions, and government agencies that are committed to the advancement of the craft sector.
- We advocate for craft from a national perspective.
Annual Report
History
1900
National craft organizations in Canada date back to 1900, starting with the foundation of the Canadian Guild of Crafts.
1974
In 1974, a number of craft organizations and guilds merged to create the Canadian Crafts Council (CCC). The CCC provided structure and a forum to unify and represent Canadian craftspeople nationally and internationally. Originally, it was intended as an organization of provincial crafts councils, but over the years, membership privileges were extended to other crafts organizations, honorary members, and in 1996, to individual craftspeople.
1996
Funding from the Department of Canadian Heritage, membership fees, contributions, contract revenues and donations from the private sector (principally from the M. Joan Chalmers Cultural Centre Foundation – MJCCCF) supported the CCC’s activities, which focused primarily on the actions of the federal government that interfaced with crafts and craftspeople. As of 1996, federal funding to the CCC was discontinued, as was the support from the MJCCCF. At this point the staff was laid off and the office in Ottawa was closed.
The CCC continued on without an office, staff, or funding through the energetic efforts of a small band of five volunteers who formed a transition board and who kept the CCC alive as a continuing legal entity but without any programming ability.
1998
In May of 1998, representatives of provincial crafts councils met with officers of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, and The Canada Council for the Arts in Montreal to debate the future of a national organization for crafts in Canada.
From the discussions and ideas shared at this meeting, it was evident that a crafts organization at the national level was of vital and continuing importance. An organization that would collaborate with all provincial councils was required. An organization that would focus on the representation and international marketing of Canadian crafts, share information from international, national and provincial levels to the Canadian crafts community, and provide a conduit and information link between the community and the federal government.
To accomplish this, the CCC transformed into a national network for crafts to be known as the Canadian Crafts Federation / Fédération canadienne des métiers d’art (CCF/FCMA). The CCC’s charitable tax status was transferred to the CCF/FCMA. Despite challenges with funding and personnel constraints, the new organization attempted to address national issues and to provide a forum for discussion and action on matters of common concern amongst the provinces.
The CCF/FCMA thereby came into being as an organization of national consensus, mutual discussion and decision making.
1999
The first Annual General Meeting of the CCF/FCMA was held by conference call in September 1999, and a slate of officers were elected. A coordinating secretariat rotated as required amongst the ten councils. The Ontario Crafts Council (now known as Craft Ontario) was the first to provide this service.
2007
In partnership with the New Brunswick Crafts Council and The New Brunswick College of Craft and Design, the CCF/FCMA’s head office transferred to Fredericton, New Brunswick.
2023
After 16 years, the CCF/FCMA headquarters relocated back to Ottawa, Ontario, now with an office in the Arts Court.
Logo Guide
Logo and Brand Guide
Download the CCF/FCMA Logo Kit
This logo kit comes with colour, white, and black files for print and digital. There are files for horizontal and vertical logos, as well as an acronym version.
Organization Blurbs
Short Description
The Canadian Crafts Federation is a national arts service organization that creates connections and champions craft.
Long Description
The Canadian Crafts Federation is a national arts service organization representing
provincial and territorial craft organizations and makers in Canada. We envision a Canadian culture that embraces and values craft’s artistic, economic, contemporary, historical and social significance.
As a Federation of organizations, the CCF/FCMA works with the Provincial and Territorial Craft Councils and affiliate organizations to unite, enrich, empower and celebrate the professional contemporary craft sector through collaborative action, networking, and community development.
Brand Guide
Our brand guide features how the CCF/FCMA brand should be communicated, both externally and internally. This guide covers; logo use, colours, brand assets, type, and photo guidelines.
Future
2017–2020 Strategic Plan
The CCF/FCMA is proud to present our Strategic Plan for 2017–2020. After a year long process of visioning, deliberation, and consultation, our Board of Directors have approved the organizations new and expanded goals, objectives and initiatives. The CCF/FCMA’s three new goals are to “Unite, Support and Inspire”, encouraging connection and exchange among the national craft network, strengthening and empowering the craft sector, and raising the profile of Canadian contemporary fine craft nationally and internationally.
Unite: Encourage connection and exchange among the national craft network
The CCF/FCMA is first and foremost, a federation. Our primary goal is to connect the distinctive professional facets of the Canadian contemporary craft sector, embracing the diverse resources of our membership to form a vibrant national craft network. Through the facilitation of craft-focused gatherings and the distribution of craft-focused information, we create and share opportunities, spark conversation and open doors to strengthen the craft sector.
Support: Strengthen and empower the craft sector
The CCF/FCMA recognizes the great strength of collective craft community action. We provide connections, information and encouragement to the national craft network, ensuring that the craft sector is represented and recognized as a thriving component of Canadian culture.
Inspire: Raise the profile of Canadian contemporary fine craft nationally and internationally
The CCF/FCMA is proud to promote the unique contemporary fine craft sector of our country. Craft is one of the many languages of our culture, a means to celebrate who we are and the values we share. We showcase Canadian craft, elevating its status as a respected art form and increasing recognition of Contemporary fine craft as a reflective, engaging and inspiring contributor to Canadian culture.
Intrigued? Read the Strategic Plan here.
Robert Jekyll Award
The Robert Jekyll Award for Leadership in Craft recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to advancing the Canadian craft sector. Members of the Canadian Crafts Federation (CCF/FCMA) can nominate candidates for this prestigious award, which honours the recipient’s esteemed reputation and exceptional leadership within the craft community.
Background
This renowned award is named after Robert Jekyll, the founding president of CCF/FCMA, who played a vital role in leading the organization during a period of transformation. In addition to his outstanding work in stained glass for over 30 years, Jekyll is highly regarded as a significant influence in the creative community, elevating the status of craft nationwide.
The CCF/FCMA presents the Robert Jekyll Award for Leadership in Craft to recognize exceptional citizens of craft. The award honours the legacy of Mr. Jekyll and aims to encourage the growth and development of the sector. The CCF/FCMA graciously acknowledges Robert Jekyll who donates the Award fund. As well, as the donors who contribute through Canada Helps.
Important Dates To Be Announced
- Nominations Open: Now open!
- Nomination Deadline: November 1st, 2024
- Shortlist Announcement: December 2024
- Winner Announcement: February 2024
- Award Ceremony: February 2024
Mailed applications must be received by the Nomination Deadline
Watch this video, filmed by Claire Sanford (http://clairesanford.ca/) during the 2015 National Conference in Quebec City, for an overview of the award and to learn more about Mr. Jekyll’s notable achievements.
Past Recipients
2023 Recipient
Gilles Latour, Ontario
Gilles Latour is a dedicated leader, volunteer, and advocate with over 30 years of experience in advancing the craft sector at both the provincial and national levels.
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A passionate supporter and collector, Gilles has played a pivotal role in the development and success of numerous craft organizations, including Craft Ontario, the Canadian Crafts Federation, and the Canadian Society of Decorative Arts. His commitment to volunteerism, combined with his expertise in governance, fundraising, financial oversight, and community-building, has made him an invaluable contributor to the Canadian craft community. In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Gilles was previously awarded the John and Barbara Mather Award for Lifetime Achievement and was granted Honorary Membership from the Canadian Crafts Federation.
Les finalistes
Dr. Carol E. Mayer, British Columbia
Dr. Carol E. Mayer is the founding president of the North-West Ceramics Foundation and a board member for 30 years.
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She has worked tirelessly advocating for public education in ceramic arts in Western Canada. She has established scholarships, awards, residencies, and endowments that have benefited ceramicists, collectors, museums, galleries, and the public.
Dr. Jennifer E. Salahub, Alberta
Dr. Jennifer E. Salahub is an experienced Craft Historian and Professor Emerita. She has received numerous awards, scholarships, and fellowships for her research work and has curated exhibitions for museums and public galleries in Alberta.
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Dr. Salahub is an expert in contextualizing Craft history and analyzing forms and materials across various craft spectrums. She is a dedicated educator, craft historian, researcher, writer, craft collector, advocate, and long-time Alberta Craft Council board member.
2022 Recipient
Barbara Heller, British Columbia
Barbara Heller has been at the forefront of developing the tapestry, weaving and craft communities in BC, Canada, and internationally for over 48 years.
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She organized exhibitions and symposia, wrote articles, taught workshops and lectures, and juried and curated exhibitions. Barbara founded the B.C. Society of Tapestry Artists (1993) and the Canadian Tapestry Network (1995). In her studio on Granville Island in Vancouver, Barbara is an information hub for craftspeople and tourists alike. As an ambassador for the Canadian craft sector in general and tapestry in particular, Barbara is a dedicated volunteer moving the sector forward.
2022 Shortlist
Amy Gogarty, British Columbia
Amy Gogerty is an author, ceramic artist, and sector volunteer, conversant in historical and contemporary craft processes, trends and traditions.
Read More
Amy was editor (Ruth Chambers and Mireille Perron) of Utopic Impulses: Contemporary Ceramics Practice, a contemporary anthology of socially responsible ceramics practice, and, along with Nisse Gustafson, of the third volume of Paula Gustafson’s influential series, Craft Perception and Practice. She frequently contributes to Galleries West and, as a volunteer, to the CCBC and PGBC newsletters. Amy is a superlative ambassador of craft volunteerism and craft practice. She has been the ‘backbone’ and skilled collaborator for many projects and continues to be an esteemed contributor to strengthening the status of Craft across Canada and abroad.
Denis Longchamps, Quebec
Dr. Denis Longchamps has been an integral voice as a writer and curator of contemporary and historical Canadian craft.
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He created and published the Cahiers métiers d’art: Craft Journal (2007-2016), which supported and celebrated craft across Canada. Denis has been a member of several boards and committees, including the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery, the Montreal Centre for Contemporary Textiles, the Centre de céramique Bonsecours, the Musée des maîtres et artisans du Québec, the Musée de Joliette as well as the Regional Editorial Team of Studio Magazine. He is dedicated to advancing the public discourse in craft in Canada and increasing visibility and financial support to up-and-coming Canadian Glass craftspeople and artists.
2021 Recipient
Susan Hanrahan, Nova Scotia
As Executive Director of Craft Nova Scotia, Susan guided, influenced, and contributed to the ongoing development of craft on a provincial, national, and international level.
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Leading not only Craft Nova Scotia itself but also the Centre for Craft Nova Scotia, one of Canada’s only public institutions dedicated to education, promotion and opportunities for fine craft artists in the province, which includes the craft-focused Mary E. Black Gallery.
2021 Shortlist
Amy Gogarty, British Columbia
Amy Gogerty is an author, ceramic artist, and sector volunteer, conversant in historical and contemporary craft processes, trends and traditions.
Read More
Amy was editor (Ruth Chambers and Mireille Perron) of Utopic Impulses: Contemporary Ceramics Practice, a contemporary anthology of socially responsible ceramics practice, and, along with Nisse Gustafson, of the third volume of Paula Gustafson’s influential series, Craft Perception and Practice. She frequently contributes to Galleries West and, as a volunteer, to the CCBC and PGBC newsletters. Amy is a superlative ambassador of craft volunteerism and craft practice. She has been the ‘backbone’ and skilled collaborator for many projects and continues to be an esteemed contributor to strengthening the status of Craft across Canada and abroad.
Claire Kusy, Québec
With a passion for leatherwork and shoes, Claire Kusy’s visionary contributions in the province of Quebec and beyond are internationally renowned.
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From lawyer to Craftsperson, she is the former Executive for the Centre des métiers du cuir de Montréal (CMCM). Claire has been directly credited for developing footwear and design workshops, helping bring Canada’s first footwear program to life. An instigator and organizer, Claire is responsible for the rise of the specialization of leather goods, advocates for artists and leads exceptional teams.
2020 Recipients
Dr. Sandra Alfoldy, Nova Scotia
The late Dr. Sandra Alfoldy’s impact on the world of craft leadership is truly remarkable.
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Her outstanding accomplishments as a teacher, researcher, curator, author, and historian have earned her the CCF/FCMA’s first posthumous recognition after her unexpected passing in 2019. You can pay tribute to her incredible contributions by donating to the Dr. Sandra Alfoldy Memorial Scholarship. You can listen to her on the first episode of the Citizens of Craft podcast or read her book, Crafting Identity.
Nominated by Craft Nova Scotia’s Executive Director, Susan Hanrahan.
Louise Lemieux Bérubé, Québec
Louise Lemieux Bérubé is an accomplished weaver, educator, art historian, author, and politician.
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Her passion for textile arts has led to worldwide recognition and a lasting legacy of teaching and creating. She is also committed to volunteer work, co-founding the Montreal Centre for Contemporary Textiles and serving on craft organization boards in Québec. A true role model whose contributions will inspire generations to come.
Nominated by Marc Dousenard, Conseil des métiers d’art du Québec.
2018 Recipients
Anne Manuel, Newfoundland
Anne Manuel has been the backbone of the craft community in Newfoundland and Labrador for many decades.
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She held the helm of the Craft Council of Newfoundland & Labrador for 33 years of its 47-year history, building and developing a sector in the province while leading the Council through many challenges and changes.
Anne has been instrumental in organizing international events, including a very successful international Fibre Conference in Newfoundland in 2015, which brought 150 participants from around the world to Gros Morne National Park.
Tom McFall, Alberta
Tom McFall spent 19 years as the executive director and curator of the Alberta Craft Council, now recognized nationally for having an extensive exhibition program, running innovative marketing projects, initiating and leading national events, and enjoying a high level of member satisfaction.
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Tom has already been recognized with many awards, including an Alberta Centennial Medal, the prestigious Rozsa Award for Excellence in Arts Management, a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, and the Syncrude Mayor’s Award for Excellence in Arts Management.
2017 Recipient
Charlotte Kwon, British Columbia
A business leader, teacher, promoter, non-profit founder and textile artist in her own right, Kwon has worked for over 30 years to advance the practice and appreciation of textile arts in Canada and globally.
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An expert in natural dyes, she has travelled the world, studying, teaching, and working with artists in traditional techniques in India, Peru, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, and here at home in Canada.
Through documentaries, books, workshops and symposiums, she shares her love of textile arts with an audience both in and outside of the craft community.
2016 Recipient
Michael Hosaluk, Saskatchewan
Well-known for his artistic career, Hosaluk has also significantly impacted the Canadian and international craft community.
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A founder of the Saskatchewan Woodworkers Guild in 1979, the American Association of Woodturners in 1986, and the Furniture Society of North America in 1991, he has strengthened the community through active leadership for more than 40 years.
The internationally renowned ‘Emma International Collaboration,’ which grew from Hosaluk’s first Wood Turning and Furniture Making conference in Saskatoon in 1982, has continued for over 30 years, inspiring similar events across the globe.
As an artist and teacher, his influence is resounding. Hosaluk has been recognized with a Saidye Bronfman Award for Excellence in Craft, Royal Canadian Academy of Arts membership, and Honourary Lifetime Membership to the Saskatchewan Crafts Council.
2015 Recipient
Ann Roberts, Ontario
A leading presence in the Canadian ceramics scene throughout her career, Ann Roberts has served on the boards of the Montreal Potters’ Club, Ceramists Canada, and the Canadian Clay & Glass Gallery, where she played a crucial leadership role in the founding of this national gallery.
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Roberts was instrumental in establishing and expanding a ceramics program at the University of Waterloo, the Keith and Winifred Shantz Summer Internship, and the Waterloo Potters’ Workshop. A member of the International Academy of Ceramics, the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts, and winner of the “Woman of the Year for Culture” and the Kitchener-Waterloo Visual Arts Award, her creative skills are renowned. Her work has been shown across Canada and internationally, is published in 15 books, and collected by 22 museums in Europe, Asia, Australia and Canada. 2012, Roberts’ lengthy career as a ceramic artist was celebrated at the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery through a 50-year retrospective exhibition, “With Both Fear and Intrepid Enthusiasm.”
Award Winners
More information is coming soon.
2014: Deborah Dumka, British Columbia
2013: Jane Kenyon, British Columbia
2012: Simon Wroot, Alberta
2010: Marilyn Stothers, Manitoba
2007: Jean Johnson, Ontario
2006: Robert Jekyll, Ontario & Charles Lewton-Brain, Alberta
Staff & Board of Directors
Our Remote Team
Digital Content Developer
Lauren Polchies
Craft Content Developer
Shannon Stride
Meet Our Volunteer Board of Directors
President
David Freeman
First Vice President
Bernard Burton
Second Vice President
Marc Douesnard
Treasurer
Chantal Frappier
Secretary
Kathleen Morris
Former President
Tara Owen
Regional Representative,
British Columbia
Bettina Matzkhun
Regional Representative,
Alberta
Dawn Saunders Dahl
Regional Representative,
Saskatchewan
Cindy Hoppe
Regional Representative,
Manitoba
Vacant
Regional Representative,
Ontario
Stuart Reid
Regional Representative,
New Brunswick
Fabiola Martinez
Regional Representative,
Newfoundland and Labrador
Katie Parnham
Regional Representative,
Quebec
Marc Douesnard
Regional Representative,
Northwest Territories
Rosalind Mercredi
Regional Representative,
Prince Edward Island
Jody Racicot
Regional Representative,
Nova Scotia
Nancy Oakley
Regional Representative,
Nunavut
Rowena House
Director at Large
Jose Niaison
Regional Representative,
Yukon
Vacant